Abuja Nigeria — The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting the release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, clarifying that no such action has taken place.
In a statement released on Monday, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation affirmed that the Cameroonian authorities have not opened the Lagdo Dam, contrary to widespread media speculation.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, confirmed that he had direct communication with the Lagdo Dam Manager, Mr. Ahmad Bivoung, who reported that the dam remains at a low water level of 2.06 meters and no discharge has occurred.
The Ministry, through a statement signed by its Permanent Secretary, Richard Pheelangwah, reassured Nigerians that it remains in close contact with the Cameroonian authorities and will promptly inform the public of any official release of water.
Prof. Utsev urged citizens to disregard unverified reports, stay calm, and continue observing flood preparedness guidelines previously issued. He also advised residents in flood-prone areas such as Lokoja (Kogi State), Wurobokki (Adamawa State), and Makurdi (Benue State) to maintain vigilance and consult the NIHSA Flood Dashboard for accurate and real-time updates.
The Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to proactive flood management through improved water infrastructure along the Benue Trough. This includes reservoir operations of existing dams on River Benue tributaries to prevent sudden releases, the completed design of the Datsin Hausa Dam in Adamawa State, and the engagement of a Transaction Adviser to drive its construction under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.
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Furthermore, the Kashimbila Dam in Taraba State continues to serve a flood control function, while significant progress has been made on the upgrade of the Wannune Dam and the design of the Dura Dam in Benue State.
The Ministry emphasized that it is taking all necessary precautions to manage potential flood risks effectively and will keep the public informed with verified information.
